Is ARDC a Free Clinic? No. A Free Clinic treats only uninsured, low-income patients. ARDC is a nonprofit dental safety net clinic. ARDC accepts insurance and patients of all income levels. We offer discounts to families with lower household incomes.
Why does ARDC charge for their services? There are several reasons. First, it takes a great deal of money to staff the clinic forty hours a week; more money than a nonprofit dental safety net clinics can raise by donations. The equipment needed to provide dental care is also much more extensive, and expensive, than at a Free Clinic. Our dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, and receptionists are employees and receive a salary and benefits. Second, because we accept Medicaid insurance, we are required by law to charge for services received by patients who do not have Medicaid.
What does it cost? If you have Medicaid/Smiles For Children insurance, you may have no direct costs for a covered procedure. If you don’t have insurance, then your cost will be determined by your income level. If your household income is below 300% of the federal poverty level, then you will qualify for a deeply discounted fee schedule, and your costs will be significantly lower than at a commercial dentist.
How can I find out if I qualify? ARDC can help with that! Visit the “Printable Forms” tab and print the Eligibility Application. Complete the application and include proof of HOUSEHOLD income for the past month and your most recent tax return and mail it to us at P.O. Box 153, Fishersville, VA 22939. Or you can drop it by our clinic in the locked drop box located at the front door. We will review your application and respond by mail. If you have Medicaid insurance or financial assistance through Augusta Health you do not need to complete the Eligibility Application – simply call us for more information to get started.
When are you open? Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm
How long will I have to wait to get an appointment? ARDC is not an emergency or walk-in clinic. All visits with the dentist are by appointment only. Wait times may be considerable, but our office staff will do our best to accommodate new patients as appointments become available. If you are experiencing a significant dental issue (pain, swelling, trauma) call our office for more information and alternative resources.
Does ARDC treat very young children? You bet we do! We start treating patient’s as soon as their first tooth comes in.
Does ARDC offer any kind of sedation? We offer nitrous oxide for most children’s procedures. If you are considering nitrous oxide for your visit, please speak with your dentist to determine if this is a good option for you. Additional fees may apply.